The benefits of Intra Oral Scanners

The dental chair can be perceived as the place where decisions are already made for patients and not with them. When a course of treatment has been suggested to the patient, this can almost feel abrupt but also very overwhelming.

Taking impressions; when the patient is biting into a tray of material (often referred to as moulds) – is very messy, most of the time uncomfortable and endures a long wait. This leaves the patient without an option to see what’s happening and there is no way of understanding the treatment and the process.

Modern dentistry is taking over and now intra oral scanners are steaming ahead by enhancing the patient journey and experience. Producing an immediate digital image of the patient’s mouth. Using IO scanners not only helps to involve the patient within their journey but also takes away the anxiety and fear of the discomfort that comes with taking impressions.  

Digital dentistry isn’t just about promoting technology that may be new, it emphasizes the much bigger picture and the demand in UK dentistry. We are ultimately helping patients feel involved and happy within their choices, creating a clearer picture and improving the access.

Having intra oral scanners creates a difference that patients can also see. Patients are able to see results instantly instead of waiting on a lab. We are opening up new levels of conversations between our teams and patients, enabling everyone to discuss but understand the details in real life time.

Not only are scanners educational tools but they also allow patients to envision their dream smile. With this modern technology, we are able to use the fantastic tools and features such as Smile Design, Treatment Simulator and Patient Monitoring (3Shape TRIOS scanner specifically). These tools are great for future aligner, whitening and bonding/veneer cases. Giving potential before and after simulations and accurate measurements for tooth wear and gum recession. This makes it far easier for patients to see their potential outcome before commitment.

Scans can be sent to labs instantly, no delays, no stress and no more waiting for lab collections. This allows lab work such as aligners, whitening trays and guides can be made within days instead of weeks. Speed within this process is invaluable – patients are scanned there and then, can start treatment planning and will leave with clarity, all within the same visit. Limiting clinical chair time being wasted and number of appointments needed.

When showing patients what’s visibly happening on the scanner, conversations become easier and more transparent, also making it easier to remember for the patient. Patients are able to see any early warning signs such as tooth wear or gum recession on the Patient monitoring tool, making it easier for them to understand and able to make informed decisions before the matter becomes urgent.

For years dentistry has been perceived as something that’s just being done to patients, however with digital technology today, like the intra oral scanners, patients are now a part of it. When showing patients their scans, they are able to ask questions with confidence and talk about their own teeth with the stronger possibility of making changes or improvements. This makes treatment planning feeling like an ownership.